Clear Cache
If your Windows 10 or 11 computer has been feeling sluggish lately, it might be time to clear out the cache. Cached files can build up over time and take up valuable disk space, leading to decreased performance. Clearing your cache is a straightforward process that can help improve system speed and free up space. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clear all cache in Windows 10 and 11.
What is Cache and Why Clear It?
Cache files are temporary data stored by your system and applications to speed up processes. While they can improve performance by allowing quick access to frequently used data, they can also accumulate and cause your system to slow down. Clearing the cache can:
- Free up disk space
- Improve system performance
- Resolve application issues
- Remove outdated data
Clearing Cache in Windows 10 and 11
1. Clear Temporary Files
Temporary files can consume significant disk space. Here’s how to clear them:
1. Open Settings: Press `Win + I` to open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to System: Go to `System` > `Storage`.
3. Temporary Files: Click on `Temporary files`.
4. Select Files to Delete: Check the boxes for the types of temporary files you want to remove, such as "Temporary files", "Downloads", and "Recycle Bin".
5. Remove Files: Click on `Remove files`.
2. Clear Windows Store Cache
The Windows Store cache can be cleared using a simple command:
1. Open Run Dialog: Press `Win + R`.
2. Run WSReset: Type `wsreset.exe` and press `Enter`.
3. Wait for Process to Complete: A Command Prompt window will appear. Wait for it to close automatically.
3. Clear Browser Cache
Browsers store a lot of temporary data. Here’s how to clear the cache for the most common browsers:
Google Chrome
1. Open Chrome: Launch Google Chrome.
2. Open Settings: Click on the three dots in the upper-right corner and select `Settings`.
3. Privacy and Security: Click on `Privacy and security`.
4. Clear Browsing Data: Click on `Clear browsing data`.
5. Select Time Range and Data: Choose the time range and check the boxes for "Cached images and files".
6. Clear Data: Click on `Clear data`.
Microsoft Edge
1. Open Edge: Launch Microsoft Edge.
2. Open Settings: Click on the three dots in the upper-right corner and select `Settings`.
3. Privacy, Search, and Services: Navigate to `Privacy, search, and services`.
4. Clear Browsing Data: Under `Clear browsing data`, click on `Choose what to clear`.
5. Select Time Range and Data: Choose the time range and check the boxes for "Cached images and files".
6. Clear Now: Click on `Clear now`.
4. Clear System Restore Cache
System restore points can take up a lot of space. To clear them:
1. Open System Properties: Type `sysdm.cpl` in the Run dialog (`Win + R`) and press `Enter`.
2. System Protection: Go to the `System Protection` tab.
3. Configure: Select your system drive and click `Configure`.
4. Delete: Click on `Delete` to remove all restore points.
5. Clear DNS Cache
Clearing the DNS cache can resolve internet connectivity issues:
1. Open Command Prompt: Type `cmd` in the search bar, right-click on `Command Prompt`, and select `Run as administrator`.
2. Flush DNS: Type `ipconfig /flushdns` and press `Enter`.
6. Clear Thumbnail Cache
Thumbnails can build up over time. Here’s how to clear them:
1. Open File Explorer Options: Type `file explorer options` in the search bar and select it.
2. View Tab: Go to the `View` tab and click on `Options`.
3. Delete Thumbnails: Under the `General` tab, click on `Delete` next to `Delete all thumbnails`.
7. Use Disk Cleanup
Disk Cleanup is a built-in tool that can help clear various caches:
1. Open Disk Cleanup: Type `disk cleanup` in the search bar and select the application.
2. Select Drive: Choose the drive you want to clean (usually C:).
3. Select Files to Delete: Check the boxes for the types of files you want to remove.
4. Clean Up System Files: Click on `Clean up system files`, then repeat the selection process.
5. Delete Files: Click on `OK` to delete the selected files.
Conclusion
Clearing cache in Windows 10 and 11 can significantly improve your system's performance and free up valuable disk space. By regularly performing these steps, you can ensure that your computer runs smoothly and efficiently. Whether you’re clearing temporary files, browser cache, or using Disk Cleanup, these methods are simple and effective ways to maintain your system's health.
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